Spring Steam Gala goes ahead despite snow

Despite snow in Shropshire and Worcestershire, the Severn Valley Railway has been pressing ahead with one of its biggest annual events - the three-day Spring Steam Gala.Dozens of steam-hauled passenger trains have been running along the heritage line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth with the help of an army of volunteers.Many photographers have been visiting to see the locomotives in spectacular conditions. Snow is a rare sight for the Spring event, but more commonplace during the Santa specials in December.

A number of engines have been hired in specially for the gala from other heritage steam railways around the country.I captured this dramatic scene as the snow fell at Arley station in Worcestershire yesterday.Inside the waiting room, a traditional fire kept passengers warm - just like in the old days.